Ten Repair Patio Doors That Really Help You Live Better
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Doors Patio Door Locks
Maintaining your patio doors in good working in good order will safeguard your home from intruders who aren't yours. The elements can cause damage or misalignment to the patio doors as well as their locks.
You can fix your patio door lock on your own in the event that it isn't working properly. These steps will resolve issues with the handle, keyway and latch.
Check the lock
Patio doors are often targeted by burglars due to their huge amount of glass and convenient position within a home. It is crucial that your locks work properly to keep your home secure. There are easy ways to fix patio door locks which have stopped working.
First, examine the lock and make sure nothing is blocking it from latching or locking. If you find any issues, such as loose screws or rust, or even the wrong alignment, these must be addressed promptly. In some cases, a slight adjustment to the patio door's position may be enough to solve the issue.
Dust or debris could cause the lock mechanism not to work properly. Clean your patio door and wipe down all hardware of the lock regularly to avoid this. If needed, you can use mild soap. However, you must be sure that you dry the lock completely afterwards.
In addition, it's recommended to oil the lock regularly. The moving parts of your uPVC patio door lock are like those of a finely tuned machine, so they can get stuck and jammed just like any other mechanical device. A graphite pencil, or a tiny amount of lubricant could be used to clean any debris or dirt from the lock's cylinder. This will ensure that it is functioning smoothly.
It is essential to be aware of the exact dimensions of the patio door lock. This will help you find a lock that perfectly matches the existing mechanism. If you're unsure of what to do, contact a professional tradesperson or locksmith to get help.
Clean the Lock
The intricate parts of the door lock can become jammed due to dust, dirt and cold and hot weather. These problems can compromise the security of your home. But it's easy to fix these problems if you know how.
Clean your lock prior to making any repairs. Using a damp cloth, clean any stains or debris that might hinder your lock from functioning properly. Then use a bit of hot soapy water to wash the mechanism of your lock and wash away any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time. After you've cleaned your locks, let them dry completely before re-using them.
Most patio doors are fitted with a mortise lock that is safe but is susceptible to problems in the course of time. If your uPVC lock has become stuck the first step is to clean and lubricate it. Start by cleaning the latch with hot soapy water. The next step is to remove the screws that secure the latch body in the position. After removing the latch plate and handle then you can take it from its slot on the door frame.
After the latch has been removed, you can lubricate the lock with a light engineering oil such as WD40. If you don't have WD40 or a graphite pencil, a graphite pens can be used to clean any grit and dirt from the mechanism. If your uPVC locks aren't working, you might need to move the locks cylinders. This requires additional tools and should be performed by an expert. You can practice repositioning the cylinder without needing to remove it from the door. Close and open the door while the cylinder is in the lock position. Then, draw pencil marks on the frame the area where the screws that support the cylinder in place are.
Lubricate the Lock
After your lock is clean and free of dirt and debris it's time to lubricate both the lock and the keyhole themselves. Using the right type of lubricant can keep your lock in top shape, extending its lifespan.
Dry graphite is an excellent method to lubricate small metal parts, like locks. It's oil-free and non-sticky. It is also more durable than liquids. It's easy to apply, and you can also use it on sliding doors, door hinges and garage door tracks. Master locksmith Shawn Fago recommends using a pencil-type graphite lubricant that is specifically designed for lock cylinders.
Liquid lubricants are more efficient than graphite, especially in humid climates. Silicone lubricants resist water and don't attract dust and dirt as much as other liquid fluids. They are suitable for low and high temperatures. Some silicone lubricants can get accumulated over time, and can displace other lubricants that you've used.
Teflon Lubricants are an excellent substitute for silicone lubricants, as they are long-lasting and don't attract dust or dirt. They're also ideal for cold conditions, since they can help prevent ice accumulation within the lock.
If your lock cylinder feels stiff and difficult to turn, then it's probably worn out. It's time to get it replaced. A professional locksmith will remove the lock mechanism, and then install an entirely new cylinder that is compatible with the keys you have. They can also repair or modify existing locking mechanisms. A professional can replace the lock cylinder if your door isn't equipped with one. This can increase safety and security. They can also install new lock faceplates on your patio door to are compatible with the rest of the door.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If cleaning the lock and lubricating it doesn't perform, the issue could be that the latch is not properly aligned with the side jamb or the door frame. Open the sliding patio door, and examine the top and bottom of the opening for the latch. If the door is in line with the jamb or the frame then you can test. If not, loosen screws holding the latch body and adjust it downwards or upwards until the latch is firmly catching the latch's hasp as the door closes.
The latch may also be difficult to close because the cylinder is worn out. You'll need a replacement for the cylinder when the worn one is making it difficult to turn the key. It is essential to select an alternative cylinder that is similar in size to the one you have had previously and has the same keyway, so that you can easily replace it by simply screwing the two halves of the lock to one side and inserting the new cylinder.
Many home improvement stores carry replacement cylinders. You'll need the brand and model number of the existing cylinder to buy the replacement. If you aren't sure of the model or manufacturer, take a picture of the cylinder and its mounting screws. Then go to the local hardware store for help.
Once you have the new cylinder in place remove it from the flat screw holding it in place. Take off the escutcheon. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the lock cylinder and the escutcheon plate from the door as well as the door frame. Put the screw somewhere safe to ensure you do not lose it. Then, loosen enough the set screw on the cylinder keep (the metal piece that fits into the rectangular hole of the door).
Replace the Lock
A patio door lock not functioning properly could be a major risk to your security. Dirt and debris can get stuck within the lock mechanism. If this is not taken care of promptly, the lock will eventually stop working and will no longer provide security. Replacing the aluminium patio door repairs door lock is a simple DIY project that requires only a few tools and small amount of time.
Begin by examining the lock and determining what's causing the problem. If cleaning and lubrication don't aid, the latch may be bent too much to work properly. If this is the case, replace the latch with a mortise locking system to ensure that it's as solid and secure as possible.
If you aren't comfortable tackling this DIY task yourself seek out an expert locksmith or door hardware specialist to assist you with the installation of the new lock. They'll have the tools and experience to properly install the lock.
Keeping your patio door lock in good condition is a matter of regular maintenance. Check that the knobs and handles aren't loose and tighten them if necessary. Lubricate the lock at least once a year to prevent it from squeezing or becoming stiff. It is recommended that locks exposed to heavy use or extreme weather conditions should be lubricated regularly. The type of lubricant you use is crucial, so make sure to choose one that's specifically designed to be used on locks (GT85 or WD-40's Specialist Anti Friction Dry PTFE). Apply the lubricant to keyhole of the lock mechanism for the best results.